Two Point Studios' Unique Approach to Management Sims

Following the release of Two Point Museum, the latest installment in the management sim series, Two Point Studios' design director Ben Huskins shares insights into the studio's approach to differentiating its games from others in the genre. In a market saturated with simulation titles, Two Point Studios has carved out a niche for itself by embracing a lighthearted and humorous tone. According to Huskins, this approach allows the team to balance realistic elements with more whimsical and fantastical features, resulting in a unique gaming experience. The studio's focus on personality and charm is evident in its character design, with Huskins noting that the game's characters are "packed full of personality and charm" and "almost cartoonishly expressive." This attention to detail helps to create a sense of comic relief and makes the game more engaging for players. When developing its games, Two Point Studios considers the diverse range of players who enjoy management sims, from "manic managers" who want to control every aspect of the game to "decorators" who prioritize creativity and customization. The team aims to strike a balance between familiarity and ease of access, ensuring that both new and experienced players can enjoy the game. To achieve this balance, the studio focuses on introducing core features in the early stages of the game and gradually adding more complexity as the player progresses. Huskins emphasizes the importance of first impressions, stating that the team wants to "subvert expectations" while still maintaining a sense of familiarity. Two Point Studios also prioritizes "accessible depth," a concept that involves layering complex systems in a way that is easy for new players to understand and engage with. This approach enables players to gradually discover the game's depth and complexity, making it more enjoyable and immersive. The studio's latest game, Two Point Museum, features a unique hook in the form of expeditions, where players send teams of staff on treasure hunts to collect items and artifacts for exhibitions. This feature was inspired by previous games in the series, including Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus, and has undergone significant iteration and refinement to create a engaging and challenging experience. Throughout the development process, Two Point Studios emphasizes iteration and experimentation, with Huskins noting that the team is "not afraid to redesign" features that are not working. This approach allows the studio to refine its ideas and create a game that is both fun and engaging. The studio's experience in developing previous games in the series has also informed the development of Two Point Museum. Huskins highlights the importance of community feedback, stating that the team "thrives on community feedback" and incorporates player suggestions into each iteration. This approach helps to create a sense of ownership and investment among players, making the game more enjoyable and rewarding. Ultimately, Two Point Studios' distinctive approach to management sims has enabled the studio to carve out a unique niche in the gaming market. With its focus on personality, charm, and accessibility, the studio has created a series of games that are both engaging and entertaining, with a loyal community of players who appreciate the studio's commitment to quality and innovation.